Experiential Learning in Higher Education

Webinar Overview

Discover the transformative power of experiential learning in higher education!

In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, experiential learning stands out for its practical approaches, offering innovative and effective methods that actively engage students in real-world application and authentic experiences. By immersing students in real-world experiences, experiential learning cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills essential for success in today’s rapidly changing world.

This highly interactive two-day workshop is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to seamlessly integrate experiential learning in higher education (beyond the curriculum) and more specifically into teaching and learning practices. Through a dynamic blend of theory and hands-on application, participants will also learn how to develop/ review their course plans to integrate experiential learning opportunities that align with their teaching styles and disciplines, enriching their overall students’ learning experience.

Participants will explore the fundamental concepts and principles of experiential learning, emphasizing its profound impact on student engagement, academic achievement, and preparation for future careers. They will apply Kolb’s cycle for experiential learning, explore diverse ways for integration, and learn strategies for teaching reflective skills through the examination of existing models. Additionally, they will review their course plans including outcomes, learning activities, and assessment tools to ensure alignment with the unique nature of experiential learning.

Workshop Outcomes

By the end of the program, participants will be able to:

Gain a deep understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles of experiential learning, emphasizing its profound impact on student engagement, academic achievement, and future career readiness.

Apply experiential learning principles and Kolb’s theory to design and implement effective learning experiences.

Discuss effective methods for integrating experiential learning into higher education settings.

Assess the benefits and challenges of experiential learning and devise institutional strategies to maximize its advantages while addressing potential obstacles.

Review course plans, including outcomes, learning activities, and assessment tools, through a reflective lens, ensuring they effectively integrate experiential learning opportunities.

Workshop Key Topics

Day 1: Foundations and Fundamentals of Experiential Learning in HE

- What is Experiential Learning (EL)? Why is it Important?
- The Implementation of EL across Higher Education
- Experiential Learning Opportunities in Higher Education
- Trends and Innovations in Experiential Learning Adoption
- Principles of Experiential Learning
- Advantages and Opportunities Offered by Experiential Learning
- Common Challenges and Strategies for Overcoming Them
- Exploration of Diverse Experiential Learning Opportunities (i.e. Internships, Service Learning, Clinical Education, Study Abroad, Undergraduate Research, Co-Ops, etc.)
- Institutionalizing Experiential Learning – Strategies for Integrating Experiential Learning into Institutional Culture and Policies
- Creating Supportive Structures and Resources for Experiential Learning Initiatives
- The Changing Role of Learner and Instructor- Empowering Students as Active Participants in the Learning Process
- The Experiential Learning Process: Kolb’s Cycle of Learning

Day 2: Building Experiential Learning into Your Course

- Designing a Course to Integrate Experiential Learning (addressing Learning Outcomes, Content, Structure, Activities, and Resources in Course Design)
- Creating Engaging and Meaningful Experiential Learning Experiences
- Assessment for Experiential Learning
- Feedback Mechanisms and Performance Evaluation in Experiential Learning Contexts
- Practical application on a ‘simulated’ course.

Target Audience

The workshop may be of interest to:

- Academic leaders including VP for Academic Affairs and Colleges’ Deans
- Program Administrators/Directors
- Heads of Academic Departments
- Faculty members & Course Coordinators involved with the design and development of programs and courses.
- Managers and staff members working in teaching and learning centers